Laundry is one of those mundane tasks we don't usually think much about until we have to, but for those dealing with eczema or other skin challenges, the ingredients in laundry detergent are often a significant trigger - even in brands that claim otherwise.
Eczema is an inflammatory condition that can cause chronic or periodic flares of dry and itchy skin. While many doctors focus on prescribing creams and medications to manage this symptom, it's important to consider the role that environmental and chemical sensitivities can play in triggering or exacerbating sensitive skin. I believe that a holistic, multi-factorial approach is key to managing or resolving skin challenges.
Our skin is our largest organ so it's important to be mindful of what we put on or near it. Even if you're a fan of sleeping nude, you're still lying on sheets that have been laundered which can leave residue on your skin adding to the cumulative toxin load your liver must process. Since most of us are in close proximity to laundered materials 24/7, this is a valuable topic to explore.
Our Experience.
When my daughter first developed eczema, none of the doctors we saw with mentioned anything about identifying or managing triggers - only suppressing the inflammation with steroid creams. It was only noticing her skin was flaring where her clothes sat against it that I began to suspect laundry detergent may be a culprit.
So I did what so many of us have done. I toddled to the supermarket to confidently switch to a very popular eco-friendly ultra sensitive laundry product as it was surely 'the best'. As an aspiring holistic mama reading the label, I felt this brand would care for me, my baby... and every single thing on the planet. I trusted it would be the safest choice because the label said so. Not only did her eczema slightly worsen but suddenly my husband and I suddenly both developed dry and itchy skin in our elbow and leg creases. I knew I had to consider any recent changes and was as surprised when I realised it was the laundry detergent. So I researched the topic, switched to a genuinely natural laundry product, her eczema began to heal, our skin reverted to normal and we never looked back.
Since then I've connected with thousands of families and worked with clients directly, and have come to realise that the sensitive eco-friendly supermarket detergents often trigger eczema just as much, if not more, than the conventional types so I put together this article to help you navigate this topic and shop smarter.
Going {Genuinely} Natural.
So yes I'm glad you're rethinking laundry. Choosing a detergent free from harsh chemicals and fragrances is an excellent step toward creating a supportive, low-tox space for healing at home.
We want to know that what we’re purchasing isn’t going to make us sick, irritate our skin or harm the planet - and we want it to actually clean and not cost a million bucks. Easy? Not always.
Defining something as non-toxic is difficult because not only is toxicity is related to quantity, even natural agents such as baking soda and (especially) essential oils are irritating to some. It's okay to be skeptical of claims as it's very easy for products to create the impression they're safer than they really are, preventing us from rationally assessing the connection when symptoms persist. Supermarket laundry products often contain ingredients that can irritate your skin and are often extremely alkaline meaning they're not a great match for eczema prone skin.
Going natural often means doing laundry a little differently though, as natural products tend to be less strong which is good for our skin and liver - but not always great for stains.
HELPFUL TIPS
Pre-soak to dramatically improve results.
If you've been using chemical products for a while, do a hot wash with a little vinegar to help clean your machine, and minimise existing residue.
Try not to overload your machine - good water flow and agitation helps a lot.
While you can add a few drops of safe essential oils for scent, limit this at first especially if you're in active gut healing or have a young baby as these are still super concentrated natural extracts that can create more work for the liver - fragrance free is best.
Choose the right washing cycle.
Choose natural fibres wherever possible such as cotton, bamboo, silk and hemp.
Use oxygen bleach for brighter whites and colours.
Wash in 60°C | 140°F hot water to help remove dust mites, pet dander and pollen if your triggers are more environmental, and use the dryer rather than dry outdoors.
Just as there is no single topical product that will help everyone with eczema, it's the same with laundry solutions so find what you like, and what likes you back.
Make the Switch.
As with any new product, it's always a good idea to patch test a small area of clothing or fabric to ensure that the detergent does not cause any adverse reactions before using it on your entire laundry load.
I do recommend moving away from supermarket choices however if you have no choice, try washing soda crystals from the supermarket. They are versatile, cheap, easily dissolved, and low allergy however may not shift stubborn stains on their own.
MAKE YOUR OWN
1 cup washing soda
1/2 cup borax
1/4 cup sodium percarbonate
1/2 cup liquid castile soap
2-3 drops of essential oil (optional) - I like lemon.
In a mixing bowl, combine washing soda, borax, and sodium percarbonate. Stir well to combine. Add liquid castile soap to the bowl and mix until the ingredients form a paste.
If desired, add 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil. Store in an airtight container.
Add 2-3 tablespoons to each load of laundry, depending on the size of the load and level of soiling. This recipe can be used for both front-loading and top-loading machines.
SOAP NUTS
Popular due to being a sustainable, biodegradable and natural resource that grows wild - the dried fruit produces saponin (soap). Extremely gentle, it's perfect for little and sensitive ones but are also fiddly and not really that effective at cleaning. Buy Soap Nuts
MOLLY'S SUDS
One of my absolute faves, Molly's Suds was created after a mum was inspired to create safer choices following the loss of her daughter who was stillborn. It is because it is a non-toxic, eco-friendly, and effective detergent that is gentle on clothes and skin. Overall, Molly's Suds is a safe, reliable, and sustainable option for anyone looking for a high-quality laundry product that cares.
GREEN GODDESS (NZ)
Such an incredible laundry product. Made from castile soap, washing soda and baking soda. there is enough in one bag for 33 washes. Use only 1 tbsp per wish with no chemical residue and can be used in cold water and front loaders.
BLOODY AWESOME, PERIOD.
A gentle but effective laundry and stain remover bar enhanced with sodium sesquicarbonate for the ultimate cleaning power. The fragrance free non-irritating formula is suitable for clothing, period underwear, cloth pads and nappies. It also works on many stains - including blood, dirt and grease. Cruelty free.
OTHER SPECIAL MENTIONS
Zum Laundry Soap (Sea Salt) this is the one I normally buy and it lasts ages
Figgy & Co incredible New Zealand based range
Bleach Alternative Pods
Got eczema? See more of my eczema resources here as well as information on how you can work with me 1:1 to support your skin and gut health.